Concussion Bill Nears Finish Line – WCTV
Every year thousands of Floridians suffer traumatic brain injuries. Many of the injured are high school athletes, who get back in the game after suffering a concussion. Legislation would take the decision to keep playing out of the hands of players and coaches and make doctors decide.
Tallahassee, FL — February 29, 2012 —
High school junior David Goldstein’s new game is politics. David suffered a concussion during a championship soccer game, and played through his injury.
It was a dangerous decision.
“For over three months after my collision, I was sensitive to light and sound, my balance was distorted. I was depressed,” said David.
Athletes who keep playing after suffering a concussion risk brain injury or even death, but in the past it was expected; even applauded. Coaches would perform an on field test. A right answer got the player back in the game. There’s just one huge problem; most coaches aren’t doctors.
“For too long we have said you know what, shake it off, you’re fine, it’s just a bump on the head, go on and get back in the game,” said Flores.
State Senator Anitere Flores is sponsoring a bill requiring medical professionals to decide if an injured athlete can keep playing.
“It has to be someone trained in the management of concussion,” said Flores.
As for David, he’s back on the soccer field “There are bigger things than one game,” he said, and better equipped to protect his health.
The Florida High School Athletic Association has already adopted rules to protect players who’ve suffered concussions. A spokesman for the FHSAA says the legislation will help solidify their new rules.
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